The path of herbalism is in many ways a journey, endless and winding, each turn on the way a chance for discovery for even the most experienced traveler. For many of us, it feels not like a hobby or business so much as a calling, beckoned forward by a sense of purpose, by the possibilities of healing, by the entreaties of plants whose voices and abilities we could give a lifetime to understanding. 

I love the feeling of cool mist on my skin, especially when scented with flowers and citrus and earth. As a teenager, I collected bottles of perfume and reveled in the transformative magic that aroma inspires. Soft honeyed amber, light fruity florals, and spicy evergreen woods set the mood each morning before I adventured out into the world.

We are so excited to share this post from our upcoming Free Herbalism Project speaker Susan Leopold, PhD!

This powerful essential oil comes from the distilled fruit of the vitex or chaste tree. Vitex is considered a balancing herb for women. In fact, it is said to support physical and emotional health during a woman’s menstrual cycle and in the transition into menopause, relieving mild mood changes, occasional cramps, water retention, and hot flashes.*

We are excited to announce our next Free Herbalism Project event!

Join us for an amazing lineup of free plant talks as we welcome Vermont herbalist Guido Masé and ethnobotanist Susan Leopold, PhD of the United Plant Savers. Registration is now open for this community event featuring a full day of free herbal classes (details below), free tea, live music, a plant sale, food carts, and more. Help us support the United Plant Savers with your purchase of books, t-shirts, herbs, and other botanical goodies in our Free Herbalism Project shop during the event! Register now and follow us on Facebook for more news and updates. We look forward to gathering with you!